Is it possible to install a new outlet using deck light?

last year

last modified: last year

Hello:

Is it possible to install a new outlet using deck light? I am a newbie so please pardon my ignorance. If it is possible, how much wattage would I be able to get out of it? Would I be able to use a device that requires 75W?

I have attached a picture of the deck light for your reference. This lights automatically when it gets dark.

Thank you!

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Comments (8)

A Mat
last year
Show a picture of the bottom of the fixture. i would like to see a covered opening.
Susan Murin
last year
You should be able to tap off the box…but where/how will you run the wire to the desired location? Conduit isn’t going to look pretty against the brick!
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Yes, I would expect that an electrician would not have a difficult time installing additional lights in the attic. Those lights could be installed on a motion detector so you would not have to be turning them on and off. However, I strongly suggest you spend that money on a wildlife exterminator. You need to get the squirrel out and gone while it is only one or two because if you don't, you will have an entire family to deal with in a few months. Squirrels can be very determined critters and really enjoy warm and cozy attics. You may be able to find a handyman or small jobs contractor who is familiar with them and knows various methods of finding and sealing entry holes. As a homeowner, you may not be legally permitted to trap them; in my area, a permit is required to have a live trap. Not saying that most people let that regulation bother them but I don't recommend trapping. Last time we had this issue, we covered all the holes we found with tin and remodeled a trap to use the mechanism to allow trapped squirrels to leave but not come back in. Be prepared for them to chew another hole next to the existing so spray everything down with pepper spray.
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3onthetree
last year
You would like to replace the light with a receptacle, or branch off the light to a receptacle? Does the light still have a switch inside the house?
fnmroberts
last year
You acknowledge you’re new so I’m providing advise, not guidance.

The answer is probably, yes. However I strongly suggest hiring a professiobal electrician. It will be necessary to evaluate the electrical load on the respective circuit. Plus know what you wish to plug into the additional outlet. We cannot determine the wire guage, current circuit amperage or present draw on-line. We want you safe. Work with the electrician and learn how those issues are evualated, what tools are used and what is the cost of parts and labor. Gradually you’ll be able to safely DIY.

Hope that helps.
Kiran K
Original Author
last year
last modified: last year
I appreciate all your kind replies.

@A Mat please find below the picture of the bottom of the fixture.

@3onthetree I would like to branch off the light to a receptable. Light does not have a switch inside the house. It is based on a sensor. I live in a condo and the light is on the exterior of the building which is HOA.

@fnmroberts I was definitely going to engage a licensed electrician but wanted to do my homework first. I was not sure how much electricians would be interested in this project as to my layman's eye looks like a minor project?
A Mat
last year
your box appears to have an access hole. yes you can use the existing deck light, yes you can use a 75w device.
3onthetree
last year
I don't know if the hired electrician will care, so your homework should include making sure the condo association allows the aesthetics of the exposed conduit, or they may have a certain weatherproof outlet cover to match the rest of building. Also, you didn't say if this is on your deck or a common area, but that could change for which panel (and who pays for the electricity), the electrician will probably trace the circuit anyway to make sure there's no curveballs. If it's personal work your association may even have a contracted electrician you have to use.
Kiran K
Original Author
last year
last modified: last year
Thank you @3onthetree and @ABC Last time I checked with my HOA board, they were fine as long as a licensed electrician did the job.

@3onthetree this is on my deck and not a common area

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Is it possible to install a new outlet using deck light?

Comments (8)

A Mat

Susan Murin

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Is it possible to install a new outlet using deck light?

Comments (8)

A Mat

Susan Murin

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